Diwali is a festival of lights, but it is also a festival of creativity. This year, why not ditch your usual high street decor in favor of something more personal and budget-friendly?Whether you’re decorating a cozy nook or decorating your entire home, it’ll burn a hole in your wallet. Here are some great DIY ideas to brighten your Diwali without.
1. Upcycled Glass Bottle Lanterns: Do you have some empty glass bottles lying around? Now it’s time to use them! Upcycle glass bottles to create amazing candle holders and lanterns to decorate any space. also adds a beautiful rustic feel.
Things you’ll need: empty glass jars (pickle jars, jam jars, mason jars, etc.), acrylic or glass paint, tea lights or small candles, decorative ribbon or twine.
How to make it: Thoroughly clean the jars and paint them in the pattern or design of your choice. To get the stained glass effect, use glass paint. Once dry, place a tea light inside and tie a ribbon or twine around the neck of the jar to create a gorgeous Diwali lantern. You can also add small mirrors or beads for extra sparkle.
2. Handmade Paper Diyas: Diyas are a Diwali staple, but you don’t have to rely only on clay lamps. For a budget-friendly twist, try making your own Diya using colored paper. This option is not only cheap, but also child-friendly and safe.
What you need: colored paper (bright yellow, red, orange, etc.), scissors, glue, glitter (optional)
How to make: Cut the paper into petal shapes and create flowers around the circular base to create the diya shape. Paste the petals in a circular pattern. You can add a small LED tea light to the center or simply use it as a decoration. For an extra festive touch, add a sprinkle of glitter to add a sparkling effect.
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3. Floral Rangolis with a Twist: Flowers are a big part of Diwali decorations and you can use them in creative ways to design rangolis without resorting to powder. Fresh or dried petals provide vibrant color and are biodegradable and eco-friendly.
What you’ll need: fresh or dried petals (marigolds, roses, and hibiscus are best), whole flowers, and leafy vegetables to add contrast.
Directions: Arrange the petals in concentric circles or any pattern you like. You can also place tea lights inside the rangoli to light it up in the evening. If you want to mix and match textures, add leafy greens or colored grains (like rice or lentils) to accentuate your design. For a longer-lasting look, use artificial petals that can be reused next Diwali.
4. Fairy Lights Mason Jar: Fairy lights are a magic maker for any festival and when paired with mason jars they add an enchanting touch. Perfect for both indoor and outdoor setups, these small lanterns are easy to make and reuse.
What you’ll need: Mason jars or empty glass jars, battery-powered fairy lights, and artificial flowers or potpourri (optional).
Directions: Insert a string of fairy lights into each jar and close the lid. Place it along the stairs, windowsill or table. To further enhance the festive atmosphere, you can place artificial flowers or potpourri at the bottom of the jar to add color and fragrance. These lights look even more enchanting in the dark, emitting a warm glow that makes any space feel festive.
5. Painted Coconut Shell Candles: If you want something truly unique and sustainable, try making candles from coconut shells. Not only is it eco-friendly, but it also adds a rustic, earthy charm that’s perfect for Diwali.
What you need: coconut shell (cleaned and cut in half), soy wax or candle wax, wick, paint (acrylic or poster paint), essential oil (optional)
Instructions: Paint the outside of the coconut shell with bright Diwali-themed colors and designs. Melt the wax, add a few drops of essential oil (if you want a scented candle) and pour it into the shell. Place the wick in the center and let the wax harden. These candles are perfect for adding a touch of subtle sparkle and scent to your Diwali decor.
6. Upcycled Fabric Bunting: Brighten up your walls with bunting made from leftover fabric. These colorful triangular pennants bring a cheerful and festive feel to any space.
What you will need: Leftover fabric (such as sari scraps, old kurtas, or colorful dish towels), scissors, twine or ribbon, glue or sewing supplies.
Instructions: Cut the fabric into triangles and sew or glue them onto twine or ribbon. Hang the bunting on a wall, doorway, or balcony. You can mix and match fabrics to create a fun patchwork look. What’s more, these fabric buntings are reusable and can give your home a festive Diwali feel without spending too much.
7. CD Rangolis with a Retro Twist: For an inexpensive and super creative Diwali decoration, make rangolis from old CDs. CDs reflect light beautifully and can add a holographic effect to your setup.
Things you’ll need: Old CDs, acrylic paint or glass markers, adhesive gems and beads, and glue.
How to make it: Paint or decorate CDs with bright colors and patterns, or glue small gems and beads to create intricate designs. You can arrange the CDs in a rangoli pattern on the floor or use them as centerpieces on your table. This idea not only recycles old materials but also gives a modern, shiny twist to traditional rangolis.
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8. Origami Diya with a Pop of Color: Origami Diya is a fun and eco-friendly alternative to clay Diya. It’s especially perfect for those looking for a low-maintenance, no-mess Diwali decoration option.
What you need: Origami in different colors, LED tea lights.
How to make it: Fold and shape the paper (there are lots of tutorials available online!). Place an LED tea light in the center to create a bright and colorful diya display without using oil or fire. Arrange them along windowsills or stairs for a vibrant and unique look.
9. Indian Bottle Centerpieces: You can turn wine or soda bottles into beautiful Diwali centerpieces. Painted in rich colors or wrapped in festive fabric, they make a great accent for a table or entryway.
What you need: empty glass bottles, acrylic paint or fabric scraps, glue, decorations (beads, lace, mirrors, etc.).
How to make it: Clean the bottle and paint it with colors like gold, red, or green, or wrap it in bright cloth. Enhance the traditional look by adding beads, lace, and small mirrors. You can also fill each bottle with flowers or incense sticks. These centerpieces are impressive, easy to make, and bring a nice digi touch to your home.
10. Tealight Holder with Beads and Bangles: Create a beautiful tealight holder using old bangles and give them a new purpose. Add a unique and colorful touch to your Diwali setup. You probably have most of what you need at home.
What you need: old bangles, glue, small beads or stones.
How to make: Layer bangles of the same size and glue them together in a circular motion. Place a tea light in the center and you have a great DIY holder. You can add small beads or stones around the edges to add even more sparkle. These holders look beautiful when scattered on a table or windowsill and will breathe new life into your old bangles.
Decorating your home for Diwali doesn’t have to be expensive with these DIY ideas. Each project is simple, inexpensive, and has a unique charm that you can’t buy in stores. This Diwali, enjoy the joy of making your own decorations and get your family involved to make the festival of lights even brighter. Not only will you have a beautifully decorated space, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you created it all yourself, with love and on budget.
